Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train", is a narrow-gauge railway that runs between Siliguri and Darjeeling in West Bengal, India. The railway was built between 1879 and 1881, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway covers a distance of 88
kilometers (55 miles) and passes through breathtakingly beautiful landscapes,
including tea gardens, dense forests, waterfalls and steep hills. The train passes through
several stations, including Siliguri, Sukna, Rangtong, Tindharia, Gayabari,
Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Sonada, Ghum, and Darjeeling.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is known for its unique
engineering, which includes steep gradients, tight curves, and zigzag reverses.
The railway has a maximum gradient of 1 in 20, which means that for every 20
meters the train travels horizontally, it ascends 1 meter vertically. The
railway also has several loops and spirals that allow the train to climb steep
hills.
One of the highlights of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is
the Ghum Station, which is the highest railway station in India at an elevation
of 2,258 meters (7,407 feet). The station has a museum that showcases the
history of the railway and its impact on the region.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has several classes of
travel, including first-class, second-class, and third-class. First-class
offers comfortable seating and panoramic views, while second-class is more
basic with bench seats. Third-class is the cheapest option and has wooden
seats.
Best Time in Darjeeling Toy Train
The best time to visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is between October and December, when the weather is pleasant and the views are stunning. However, the railway is closed during the monsoon season (June to September) due to the risk of landslides.
Cost of Ticket Fare - NJP- Darjeeling
The cost of tickets for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
varies depending on the class of travel and the distance covered.
For example, a one-way ticket from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling in first-class costs around 1,500 Indian Rupees (approximately $19 USD). Second-class tickets cost around 740 Indian Rupees (approximately $10 USD), while third-class tickets cost around 345 Indian Rupees (approximately $5 USD).It's worth noting that ticket prices can change, so it's a good idea to check with the railway before booking.
How much Time Takes for the Journey?
In terms of the journey time, it takes approximately 7-9 hours to travel from NJP to Darjeeling on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the time of day, the number of stops along the way, and any delays or disruptions.
Everyday train leaves at 10 Am from NJP station and it normal reaches to its destiny at 7:30 PM in Darjeeling Railway station which is the last halt for the train.
Overall, the journey on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is not only a means of transportation but also a unique experience that offers stunning views of the Himalayan landscape and a chance to soak up the region's rich culture and history.
Does Food also included in the Ticket Fare?
The tickets for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known
as the Toy Train, do not generally include food and snacks. However, some
higher-class tickets may include refreshments or meals.
First-class tickets may include complimentary snacks and drinks, such as tea or coffee, depending on the specific train and service. However, it's best to check with the railway before booking to confirm what's included in your ticket.
For those who want to enjoy a meal or snacks during their journey, there are vendors selling food and drinks at some of the train stations along the route. These vendors sell a variety of snacks and drinks, including tea, coffee, sandwiches, and sweets.
Additionally, many travelers opt to bring their own snacks and drinks on board the train, as the journey can take several hours and it's a good idea to have something on hand to eat or drink.
Overall, while the tickets for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway do not typically include food and snacks, there are plenty of options available for those who want to enjoy a bite to eat or a refreshing drink during their journey.
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| The First Class Coach |
In conclusion, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a
must-visit attraction in India for railway enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Its unique engineering and breathtaking scenery make it a UNESCO World Heritage
Site and a popular tourist destination. So if you're planning a trip to India,
be sure to add the "Toy Train" to your itinerary.
Read "Explore the Top 7 Most Visited Places in Darjeeling- Your Ultimate Travel Guide"
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